DONNELLSON — The Central Lee Sports Boosters Club has launched a fundraising campaign to raise $300,000 for renovations to the high school’s baseball and softball complex, with support from the school district.
The work is part of phases 2 and 3 of the school district's master facilities plans for the athletic department. The booster club also raised funds for the additional covered batting cage several years ago.
Superintendent Dr. Andy Crozier said the hope is to raise enough funds that work can begin after the completion of the 2025 summer season concludes.
"If we raise enough to get started, the school will pitch in to complete the project now and the boosters will continue to raise funds," he said.
"This is for the full project. Since we are not installing new lights, replacing all existing materials, or doing extensive excavation, we were able to keep costs down. Much of the costs are for the platform seating behind the baseball field, the brick backstops on both fields, and the netting for backstops to improve visibility for fans."
The upgrades will address several critical issues, including inadequate seating, closely spaced fields, and worn-out playing surfaces prone to flooding. Additionally, the project will improve handicap accessibility, enhance visibility by repositioning scoreboards and backstops, and replace deteriorating fencing originally installed in the 1980s.
“We are thrilled to begin this project, which will not only enhance the quality of our facilities, but also create a lasting legacy for future generations of Central Lee students and athletes,” Crozier said.
“We’re grateful for the support of our dedicated community and school district as we work together to make these much-needed improvements.”
Renovations will also incorporate a more “historic” design aesthetic to elevate the complex’s appearance and create a more inclusive, enjoyable experience for students, athletes, and spectators.
To support the project, the Boosters are offering several donation options, including tax-deductible contributions to the Central Lee Foundation and sponsorship options ranging from $750 to $15,000.
One unique fundraising initiative invites donors to purchase personalized engraved bricks for the complex’s new backstops. Bricks are available in two sizes: 4 inches by 8 inches for $200 and 8 inches by 8 inches for $300. The goal is to sell 300 bricks. Orders can be placed online at http://bit.ly/CLBricks.
Crozier said the new backstops will have the Wrigley Field look, providing the historic feel of the game. Some additional features will include:
• Improved spectator seating for baseball
• Moving the baseball field in will allow us to expand seating for the softball field behind home plate
• Nine inning scoreboards that are visible for all fans.
The Central Lee Sports Boosters Club is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to supporting the Central Lee Community School District’s K-12 athletic programs and facilities. Past fundraising projects include new batting cages, stadium flags, and an expanded press box at the football complex.
To learn more about the Central Lee Sports Boosters Club, visit https://www.facebook.com/CentralLeeSportsBoosters/.
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